Our Story | Boutique Properties in South Africa | Rare Earth

A Family Legacy

Rare Earth Retreats is a family-owned collection of boutique properties in South Africa's most beautiful and enriching destinations. Our safari lodges, award-winning wine estate and exquisite heritage hotel offer our guests relaxed luxury, heartfelt hospitality and a welcoming feeling of home.

sharing unique places with unique people

Rare Earth Retreats has an unconventional origin story – for one thing, it was never meant to be a travel and hospitality brand. Nearly 20 years ago, a handful of private holiday homes and investment properties were thrown together to create a commercial enterprise; nothing more than an experiment to test the viability of the concept.

The evolution of the company has been marked by good fortune, heartbreaking tragedy and no small amount of blood, sweat and tears; pivotal moments that have formed a tight-knit team passionate about crafting experiences that offer our guests a profound sense of belonging. 

Brand Values

What is important to us?

By crafting experiences that are unexpected, meaningful and considered, we hope to spark curiosity in our guests; bringing moments of wonder and joy into their stay. Whether it is marvelling at the raw beauty of the northern Kruger, going on a game drive in private Big 5 reserve or soaking up the serenity of the Garden Route, each hand-picked property allows our guests to find the perfect balance of excitement and tranquillity, and a grounding sense of perspective.

Our Rare Earth family works hard to create a welcoming feeling of home where people are embraced for exactly who they are. This innate sense of inclusivity is behind every element of the heartfelt service provided by our team and our commitment to bringing passion, intention and humility to everything we do. We do not strive to be perfect; we strive to be human. 

Explore our special offers curated to enhance your stay and provide exceptional value. From romantic getaways to adventure-packed escapes, our offers are designed to make your journey with us even more memorable.

Explore our exceptional properties, each with its own unique charm and character, offering a distinct experience for every guest.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and unparalleled experiences that await you at our extraordinary South African destinations – Plettenberg Bay, Kruger National Park, and Welgevonden Game Reserve.

Time to escape

Experience a range of distinct destinations, each with its own story to tell. Whether you seek the untamed beauty of the Kruger, the coastal charm of Plettenberg Bay, or the serene seclusion of a private wilderness, our properties offer an array of extraordinary escapes.

Time to escape

Experience a range of distinct destinations, each with its own story to tell. Whether you seek the untamed beauty of the Kruger, the coastal charm of Plettenberg Bay, or the serene seclusion of a private wilderness, our properties offer an array of extraordinary escapes.

Time to escape

Experience a range of distinct destinations, each with its own story to tell. Whether you seek the untamed beauty of the Kruger, the coastal charm of Plettenberg Bay, or the serene seclusion of a private wilderness, our properties offer an array of extraordinary escapes.

Time to escape

Experience a range of distinct destinations, each with its own story to tell. Whether you seek the untamed beauty of the Kruger, the coastal charm of Plettenberg Bay, or the serene seclusion of a private wilderness, our properties offer an array of extraordinary escapes.

What our guests have to say
Wonderful service from the time you enter to the time you leave. Stunning views. Great rooms. Delicious meals. Beautiful wildlife and top notch service from all the staff. Felt great to just unwind in such a wonderful place.
Ferguson L
Tshwene Lodge is an amazing, peaceful and special place to unwind and relax. Staff were very attentive to our needs and ensured we had the best stay. Food was delicious and we had fantastic animal sightings with our game ranger, who was professional, cheerful and knowledgeable. Will definitely be returning.
Liane WTshwene Lodge
Just had the best “Girls Wine Weekend” at Country House – chilled and relaxing with a hearty indoor fire each evening and the best linen and duvets for the chilly nights. The staff and service was excellent, and Jennifer, the GM, went out of her way to make our stay amazing. She even sorted out our itinerary for a day of wine tasting in the beautiful Plett Winelands! We will be back!
Lyndsay SCountry House
Everything about this hotel is exceptional. The rooms are beautiful, spacious and very clean. The staff are friendly and attentive without being overly intrusive. The breakfast is delicious. The beach is a two minute walk away and there are tons of restaurants nearby. A tranquil retreat that I cannot recommend enough!
Freya SThe Old Rectory
To put into words the experience at The Outpost is close to impossible – it is something that has to be experienced yourself. The lodge is absolutely stunning, the views from the rooms spectacular and the service out of this world. The warmth and friendliness of the staff makes me truly proud to be South African.
Anneke EThe Outpost